Common New York City Wildlife in Parks

Northern red salamander. Photo by Susan Stanley for NYC Parks.

Humans aren't the only creatures that inhabit New York City. In fact, our parks are teeming with wildlife, some on land, others in water, and others in our skies. Keep an eye out for these common animals the next time you're enjoying your park.

Freshwater Fish/Creatures

Marine Creatures

Horseshoe Crab

Periwinkle Snail

Spider Crab

Moon Snail

Atlantic Mole Crab

Ghost Crab

Blue Mussels

Ribbed Mussels

Razor Clam

Fiddler Crab

Remember, if you see an injured animal, the best thing to do is leave the animal where it is and locate an Urban Park Ranger in the park. Tell the ranger what kind of animal it is (e.g. bird, dog, raccoon), the size and color of the animal, and its observed condition (is it dead, acting disoriented, bleeding, or just walking around?). The more information you can provide, the better.

Please remember that young animals often look as if they have been abandoned, when in fact their parents are nearby. You are encouraged to leave the animal, even a cute baby, where it is, and tell a ranger. Most animals that are suspected of being sick or abandoned are fine and will be left where they are after a ranger checks it out.